Emmerdale fans are in for a shock as one of the show’s long-standing stars is set to bid farewell in explosive scenes after 16 years on the hit soap. Roxy Shahidi, famous for her role as Leyla Harding, has reportedly decided to leave the ITV series and her character will meet a dramatic end in the storyline. Shahidi joined Emmerdale back in August 2008 and has since become a beloved staple on the show, taking a break in 2011 before returning full-time in 2014.
During her time on Emmerdale, Shahidi’s character Leyla has been through a rollercoaster of storylines, from being a pole dancer to battling drug addiction and facing life-threatening situations. Married to fellow actor Arsher Ali and a mother to a six-year-old daughter, Shahidi has spoken fondly of her time on the show, expressing her love for the character of Leyla and the growth opportunities she’s had over the years developing the role.
With her departure from Emmerdale, Shahidi is said to be seeking new challenges and opportunities to explore. A source close to the actress revealed, “Roxy has adored her time on the soap and has made so many happy memories since first joining.” The insider added, “She is really excited about her meaty exit storyline, which will see her character Leyla die on screen. She’d rather go out in a blaze of glory and be remembered.”
Earlier this year, Shahidi also participated as a contestant on Dancing On Ice, showcasing her diverse talents beyond acting. Fans have been speculating about Leyla’s absence from recent episodes, with her character last seen in a gripping storyline involving drug addiction and dangerous encounters. While the exact details of Leyla’s exit from Emmerdale remain under wraps, viewers can expect an intense and memorable send-off for the iconic character.
Shahidi’s decision to leave Emmerdale marks the end of an era for both the actress and the show’s loyal fanbase. As she embarks on new ventures outside of soapland, Shahidi’s departure promises to be a poignant moment in Emmerdale’s ongoing narrative. Stay tuned for more updates on Shahidi’s final moments on the show and the impact of Leyla’s dramatic exit on the beloved soap opera.